Pregnant women are generally advised to limit their caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams (mg) per day. This amount is roughly equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee

Key Points on Caffeine Intake During Pregnancy:

• Recommended Limit: Up to 200 mg of caffeine daily is considered safe by most health authorities, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the British Medical Journal

• Sources of Caffeine: Caffeine is found not only in coffee but also in tea, chocolate, cola, energy drinks, and some medications

• Risks of Excessive Intake: Consuming more than 200 mg daily may increase risks such as miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, and childhood health issues. It can also cause maternal symptoms like increased blood pressure, heart rate, indigestion, jitteriness, and trouble sleeping

• Sensitivity During Pregnancy: Pregnant women metabolize caffeine more slowly, so its effects may be more pronounced

• Alternatives: Decaffeinated drinks, herbal teas (caffeine-free), water, and diluted fruit juices are recommended substitutes

Summary Table of Caffeine Content (approximate):

Product| Caffeine Content (mg)
---|---
12 oz (350 mL) brewed coffee| ~140-200 mg
8 oz (250 mL) instant coffee| ~80 mg
1 cup (240 mL) tea| 10-50 mg
1 can (375 mL) cola| ~40 mg
1 can (250 mL) energy drink| ~80 mg
50 g dark chocolate bar| < 25 mg

It is advisable to monitor total daily caffeine intake from all sources to stay within the 200 mg limit

. In conclusion, keeping caffeine consumption under 200 mg per day during pregnancy is widely recommended to minimize potential risks to both mother and baby